A 23 y.o. woman is seen at an outpatient clinic for a routine Pap smear. When questioned, she states she is deciding whether to engage in sexual activity with a man she is just getting to know. She asks how she can tell if he has an STD. Which response by the nurse is best?

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: The best response by the nurse is to recommend an examination by a physician with diagnostic testing as the only way to know if the potential partner is infection free. Simply relying on the appearance of cleanliness or condom use may not be sufficient to determine the presence of sexually transmitted infections (STIs) such as HPV, chlamydia, or herpes, which may not have visible symptoms. Encouraging regular testing and open communication about sexual health with partners is crucial in preventing the spread of STIs.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: The patient being able to ambulate 25 feet without pain is the most appropriate outcome to indicate the success of the plan for impaired mobility related to nerve compression due to a herniated lumbar disk. This outcome directly reflects an improvement in mobility, which is the primary goal when addressing impaired mobility caused by nerve compression. A reduction in pain intensity (choice A) is important but not as specific to mobility impairment. Having full range of motion (choice B) in the upper extremities is not directly related to the issue of lumbar disk herniation. Correct self-administration of analgesics (choice C) is important for pain management but does not directly reflect improvement in mobility.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: When caring for a client with hyperthyroidism, it is important to monitor the client for signs of restlessness, sweating, and excessive weight loss during thyroid replacement therapy. Treatment for hyperthyroidism often involves thyroid replacement therapy to restore the balance of thyroid hormones in the body. Monitoring for signs and symptoms of overmedication or undermedication is crucial to ensure the client's health and well-being. Restlessness, sweating, and weight loss can be indicators of an imbalance in thyroid hormone levels and may require adjustments in medication dosage. Regular monitoring and communication with healthcare providers are essential in managing the client's condition effectively.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: Clinical reasoning is a complex cognitive process used by healthcare providers to make sound clinical decisions about patient care. It involves the gathering and analyzing of information, as well as the formulation and evaluation of potential treatment options. Clinical reasoning is purposeful in that it is driven by the goal of providing the best possible care for the patient. Healthcare providers use their knowledge, skills, and experience to systematically work through patient problems, identify possible solutions, and make informed decisions. The process is goal-directed, aiming to achieve positive health outcomes for the patient based on the best available evidence and clinical expertise.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: This milestone is typically achieved around 36 months.